PISA, Italy — AC Milan secured a vital three points in the Serie A title race on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, as veteran midfielder Luka Modrić rolled back the years to net an 85th-minute winner against Pisa. The 2-1 victory at the Arena Garibaldi allows the Rossoneri to close the gap on league leaders Inter Milan to just five points, keeping the pressure high in the race for the Scudetto.
The match was not without controversy or cost for Coach Massimiliano Allegri’s side. While Modrić’s late strike saved Milan’s blushes against the bottom-side hosts, the team will be without Adrien Rabiot for their next fixture. The French midfielder was sent off in stoppage time after receiving two yellow cards in quick succession, the first of which triggered a suspension for yellow card accumulation regardless of the subsequent red.
Pulisic Transfer Rumors Swirl Amid Injury Absence
Off the pitch, the future of American star Christian Pulisic remains the primary talking point at Milanello. The “Captain America” of the San Siro, who was the club’s leading goal scorer last season, is currently sidelined with an injury. However, his absence has not stopped intense speculation regarding a return to the Premier League.
Reports indicate that Liverpool is closely monitoring Pulisic’s situation, as the forward has less than 18 months remaining on his current contract. With several English clubs reportedly taking a “firm stance” on pursuing the USMNT captain, AC Milan faces a critical decision this summer to either extend his deal or risk losing their most marketable asset for a reduced fee.
A Legacy of Success
Founded on December 16, 1899, by Herbert Kilpin, AC Milan remains the most internationally successful Italian club. Their trophy cabinet is one of the most decorated in world football, featuring:
- 7 UEFA Champions League/European Cup titles (An Italian record)
- 19 Serie A Championships
- 5 UEFA Super Cups
- 3 Intercontinental Cups and 1 FIFA Club World Cup
The club’s modern era continues to be defined by its residency at the historic San Siro stadium, a venue that has witnessed the Rossoneri’s rise to global dominance. As the 2025/2026 season enters its final stretch, the current squad aims to add a 20th domestic title to that illustrious history, fueled by the veteran leadership of players like Modrić and the tactical discipline instilled by Allegri.
Looking Ahead
With the gap at the top of the table narrowing, Milan’s upcoming fixtures will be decisive. The club must navigate the suspension of Rabiot and the ongoing recovery of Pulisic while fending off transfer interest from abroad. For the Milan faithful, the late victory in Pisa serves as a reminder that the “DNA of champions” remains very much alive in the red and black half of Lombardy.